Lock mounting assemblies for transportation devices

ABSTRACT

Lock mounting assemblies are disclosed for storing and mounting a locking apparatus to a transportation device. The mounting assemblies include one or more straps or connectors for securing the mounting assembly to the transportation device. The mounting assemblies having a structure to securely retain the locking apparatus on the transportation device and provide easy access to and release of the locking apparatus from the mounting assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 15/156,932 filed on May 17, 2016 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,035,552, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/089,290 filed on Nov. 25, 2013 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,340,997,which is a continuation of International Patent Application No.PCT/US2012/039630 filed on May 25, 2012, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/519,564 filed on May 25, 2011. Thedisclosure of each of the prior applications is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to mounting assemblies for temporarilystowing locks, for example, bicycle U-locks and cable locks, when not inuse, and for releasing the locks for ready use when needed ormaintaining a portion of the lock housing during use.

Since the invention of bicycle U-locks and cable locks, a variety ofholders have been proposed for removably carrying such a lock when thebicycle is in use, rather than parked. Such a U-lock typically comprisesa semi-enclosure member or shackle having legs or fittings withconfigured feet, a straight crossbar having openings for reception ofthese feet, and a locking mechanism in the crossbar for retaining orreleasing these feet. Such a cable lock typically comprises a cablehaving at one end a leg or fitting with a configured foot, a barextending from the other end of the cable and having an opening forreception of this foot, and a locking mechanism in the bar for retainingor releasing this foot. For protection against theft, this tie lockassemblage ties a strut or the like of the bicycle to a post, rail orother station.

The objectives of a holder for such locks are to carry the lock securelyon the bicycle frame without rattling, to position the lockinconspicuously on the bicycle frame without hindering movement of thecyclist, and yet to facilitate convenient release of the lock from theholder whenever needed. Prior art holders have not completely met theseobjectives.

SUMMARY

There is disclosed herein multiple embodiments of lock mountingassemblies for mounting a locking apparatus to a transportation device.The mounting assemblies include straps or connectors for securing themounting assembly to a transportation device such as a bicycle,motorcycle, scooter, or the like. Each mounting assembly has a structureto securely retain the locking apparatus on the transportation device ina manner and/or location that does not interfere with operation orhandling of the transportation device and which also provides easyrelease of and access to the locking apparatus from the mountingassembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a lock mounting assembly in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the invention connected to a U-lock.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the bracket member of the lock mountingassembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2A is an exploded isometric view showing a portion of the bracketof the locking mounting assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B is a section view along line 2B-2B of FIG. 4.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the spline member of the lock mountingassembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is a plan view along the line 3A-3A in FIG. 3.

FIG. 3B is a section view along the line 3B-3B in FIG. 3.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the bracket member of the lock mountingassembly of FIG. 1 illustrating the strap release tab actuated.

FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 1 illustrating the strap during amounting procedure.

FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 1 mounted to the bicycle at exemplarylocations.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a lock mounting assembly in accordancewith another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate installation of a U-lock in the lock mountingassembly of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 7 mounted to the bicycle at exemplarylocations.

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 7 withthe lock illustrated in various rotational orientations.

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a lock mounting assembly in accordancewith another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a lock mounting assembly in accordancewith another exemplary embodiment of the invention in a locked positionwith an illustrative U-lock.

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of the connecting member of the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 13 inan unlocked position with an illustrative cable lock.

FIG. 15A is a sectional view showing one embodiment of a control knob,release button and actuation mechanism for the lock mounting assembly ofFIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 13 mounted to the bicycle at exemplarylocations.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of a lock mounting assembly in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 17mounted on a portion of a bicycle with an illustrative U-lock.

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 17mounted on a portion of a bicycle with an illustrative cable lock.

FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 17mounted on a portion of a bicycle with another illustrative cable lock.

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 17 mounted to the bicycle at exemplarylocations.

FIG. 21A shows a portion of the bicycle of FIG. 21 with an illustrativeU-lock.

FIG. 22 is an isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 17mounted to the bicycle in an alternative manner.

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of a lock mounting assembly in accordancewith another exemplary embodiment of the invention illustratingconnection of a U-lock.

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of a portion of the slide of the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of a bracket member of the lock mountingassembly of FIG. 23.

FIG. 26 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 23 mounted to the bicycle with a U-lock.

FIG. 27 is an isometric view of a portion of a bicycle illustrating thelock mounting assembly of FIG. 23 mounted to the bicycle with a cablelock.

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of an alternative bracket member of thelock mounting assembly of FIG. 23.

FIGS. 29 and 29A are isometric views of a lock mounting assembly inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the inventionillustrating connection of a U-lock.

FIG. 30 is a partially exploded view illustrating positioning of thelock mounting assembly of FIG. 29 on a U-lock.

FIG. 31 is an elevation view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 is an isometric view illustrating an alternative configurationof the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 29.

FIG. 33 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating the lockmounting assembly of FIG. 23 mounted to the bicycle at exemplarylocations.

FIG. 34 is a side elevation view of a bicycle illustrating a lockmounting assembly of another exemplary embodiment of the inventionmounted to a bicycle with a U-lock.

FIG. 35 is a front isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.34.

FIG. 36 is a rear isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.34 with the storage flap partially open.

FIG. 37 is a rear isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.34 with a side support partially open and with a chain lock.

FIG. 38 is a rear isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.34 with an optional bag attached thereto.

FIG. 39 is a front elevation view of a lock mounting assembly inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention with aU-lock.

FIG. 40 is a rear elevation view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.39 with a cable lock.

FIG. 41 is a front isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.39 with a chain lock.

FIGS. 42-44 each provide a side elevation view of a bicycle illustratingthe lock mounting assembly of FIG. 39 mounted to the bicycle atexemplary locations.

FIG. 45 is an isometric view of a lock mounting assembly and lock inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 46 is a top plan view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 45mounted on a portion of an illustrative locking apparatus and a bicycle.

FIG. 47 is an isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG. 45.

FIG. 48 is another isometric view of the lock mounting assembly of FIG.45.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein withreference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to belimited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be madein the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claimsand without departing from the invention.

There is disclosed herein various mounting assemblies for removablysecuring and mounting a locking apparatus to a transportation device.For example, FIG. 6 shows several mounting assemblies 20 attached to abicycle frame at various positions with a U-lock 12 type lockingapparatus supported in each of the mounting assemblies 20. The U-lock 12includes a lock housing 14 and a shackle 16. Lock housing 14 defines afirst portion of the locking apparatus and shackle 16 defines a secondportion of the locking apparatus. The locking apparatus is operable tolock the transportation device to an object, such as a rack, stand, poleor other secure object, to prevent or discourage theft of thetransportation device. In certain embodiments of the mounting assembliesdescribed herein, the mounting assembly is releasably engaged to thefirst portion to mount the locking apparatus to the transportationdevice. Other embodiments releasably engage the second portion, or boththe first and second portions, to mount the locking apparatus to thetransportation device. While the mounting assemblies are illustratedherein with a U-lock and cable lock type lacking apparatuses, theinvention is not limited to such and may be utilized with variousportable locks and locking apparatus, including, but not limited to,modular locks as described in PCT International Application No.PCT/US09/048226, incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, whilethe mounting assemblies illustrated herein are shown attached to abicycle frame, the invention is not limited to such, but may be utilizedin various applications and with various transportation devices,including, but not limited to, bikes, motorcycles, scooters, all-terrainvehicles, three-wheeled vehicles, and carts, for example.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, mounting assembly 20 of one exemplaryembodiment generally comprises a bracket body 22, a strap 36, a lever 40and a spline member 50. With reference to FIGS. 2, 3 and 3A, the splinemember 50 includes a collar 52 which is connectable to a portion of aportable lock, for example, to the shackle 16 of the illustrated U-lock12. A spline 54 having a generally T configuration extends from thecollar 52. A stop 56 extends between the spline 54 and collar 52 at oneend of the spline 54 and is configured to contact the bracket body 22 tostop passage of the spline 54 through a receiving slot 24 in the bracketbody 22. The slot 24 includes a funnel shaped opening 26 which directsthe spline 54 into the slot 24. The spline 54 includes a notch 58configured to receive a retaining pin 57 extending into the receivingslot 24. A release button 28 is retained on the bracket body 22 and isconfigured to release the retaining pin 57 from the notch 58, asindicated by retaining pin 57′, to facilitate removal of the spline 54from the slot 24. In the illustrated embodiment, release button 28 isspring biased at one end so pin 57 normally projects into slot 24, andcan be pressed against the spring bias to move pin 57 from notch 58 andslot 24, as shown in FIG. 3B.

The bracket body 22 may include two portions 22 a and 22 b which areadjustable relative to one another, e.g. via a removable screwconnection, to allow the orientation of the slot 24 to be adjustedrelative to the orientation of the strap 36. For example, in theillustrated embodiment strap 36 and slot 24 both open in the samedirection. Bracket portion 22 a can be rotated so that strap 36 opens ina direction that is oriented 90 degrees to the opening of slot 24. Forexample, in an embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, portion 22 a includes aninner wall 50 defining four receptacles 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d andportion 22 b includes an inner wall 56 with four projection members 54a, 54 b, 54 c, 54 d that are positionable in respective ones of thereceptacles 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d to non-rotatably secure portions 22a, 22 b to one another. A bolt or other suitable connector ispositionable through hole 58 of portion 22 a and into hole 60 of portion22 b to secure portions 22 a, 22 b to one another. If it is desired tochange the orientation of bracket portion 22 a and its receiving slot 26relative to the opening defined by strap 36, portions 22 a, 22 b can beuncoupled from one another with the fastener and rotated as indicated byarrow 62 so that, for example, projection 54 a is received in receptacle52 b, projection 54 b is received in receptacle 52 c, projection 54 c isreceived in receptacle 52 d, and projection 54 d is received inreceptacle 52 a, and then re-secured to one another with the fastener.Rotation in the opposite direction and rotation 180 degrees is alsopossible. In still other embodiments, more than four rotation positionsare provided so that adjustments of less than 90 degrees are possible.

The strap 36 is connected to the bracket body 22 at a fixed end 30 andincludes a free end 32. The fixed end 30 may be adjustably connected toa first side of the bracket body 22. Free end 32 of strap 36 has aseries of transverse ridges 38, the leading faces of which are obliquelyoriented with respect to the general surface of the strap and thetrailing faces of which are perpendicularly oriented with respect to thegeneral surface of the strap. As shown in FIG. 5, to attach the bracketbody 22, the strap 36 is looped around the object and the free end 32 ispassed by the external ratchet teeth 42 of the lever 40 through achannel 43 defined in the second side of bracket body 22. In order totighten strap 36 to the transportation device, lever 40 mounted inchannel 43 is pivoted to an outward position such that the externalratchet teeth 42 face toward the bracket body 22 and engage ridges 38 todisplace the strap 36 further into bracket body 22. Once the desiredtightness of strap 36 around the object or portion of the transportationdevice is achieved, tab 44 includes a tooth 45 that engages an alignedridge 38 to hold strap 36 in place, as shown in FIG. 2B.

Upon rotation of the lever 40 to the closed position, as shown in FIG.1, the internal ratchet tooth 45 attached to tab 44 engages the ridges38 and maintains tension on the strap 36. As the strap 36 is fed intobracket 22 by lever 40, the ramped portion of ridges 38 push locking tab44 back against the torsion spring 47 and allow strap 36 to be movedfurther into channel 43 of bracket 22, and the tooth 45 on tab 44indexes to the next ridge 38 on strap 36. To release the strap 36, thetab 44 is pivoted as shown in FIG. 1 to release the internal tooth 45from the engaged ridge 38 such that the strap 36 may be removed fromchannel 43. In one embodiment, tab 44 is torsionally loaded with spring47 to a normally outwardly pivoted position so that its inner tooth 45normally engages a respective ridge 38 on strap 36 as shown in FIG. 4.Tab 44 is depressed to a position such as shown in FIG. 1 to release itstooth 45 from the engaged ridge 38 and allow strap 36 to be withdrawnfrom channel 43.

In accordance with one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 1-6,there is disclosed a transportation device accessory that includes alocking apparatus configured to secure the transportation device to anobject and a mounting assembly mountable to the transportation deviceand to the locking apparatus. The mounting assembly includes a bracketwith a first portion movably coupled to a second portion. The mountingassembly also includes a member such as a strap extending from the firstportion that is mountable to the transportation device. The memberincludes a first end fixedly connected to a first side of the firstportion of the bracket. The first portion of the bracket defines achannel opening along a second a second side of the first portion thatis opposite the first side. The bracket further includes a leverpivotably mounted to the second side along the channel to define anopening in a first position of the lever for receiving a second end ofthe member that is opposite the first end, wherein the lever is movablefrom the first position to a second position in locking engagement withthe member in the channel. The bracket further includes a tab pivotablymounted to the lever, and the tab is movable relative to the lever andthe member to release the member from locking engagement with the lever.The mounting apparatus further includes a receiving portion extendingfrom the second portion removably engaging the locking apparatus.

In one refinement of this aspect, the tab engages the member when thetab is in a locking position. In another refinement, the receivingportion defines a slot along the second portion of the bracket and thelocking apparatus includes a spline extending therefrom that isremovably received in the slot. The spline includes a notch and thesecond portion of the bracket includes a release button and a retainingpin connected to and movable with the release button. The retaining pinis spring-biased into the slot to engage the notch when the spline ispositioned in the slot and the retaining pin is movable out ofengagement with the notch when the release button is pressed.

Referring to FIGS. 7-11, a mounting assembly 120 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIG. 10shows mounting assembly 120 attached to a bicycle frame at variouspositions with a U-lock 12 supported in the mounting assembly 120. Themounting assembly 120 generally comprises a bracket body 122, a strap 36and a lever 40. The strap 36 and lever 40 operate in a manner similar tothe previous embodiment discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-6.

The bracket body 122 includes a snap assembly 130 opposite the strap 36.The snap assembly 130 includes a pair of circumferential arms 132 and134 each of which extends from the bracket body 122 over an arc greaterthan 180°, with the upper arm 132 extending counterclockwise and thelower arm 134 extending clockwise. The outer ends 132 a, 134 a of arms132, 134 thus overlap one another so that when observed in a directionalong a central axis CA the retaining area 131 defined by the arms 132and 134 is completely encircled by the combination of arms 132, 134.Arms 132, 134 also define retaining area 131 along central axis CA withan inner diameter less than the outer diameter of the lock portionreceived therein. That is, the retaining area 131 is sized to snapfittingly receive and retain a portion of the lock 12, e.g. the housing14 of the illustrated U-lock. One or both of the arms 132, 134 may beprovided with a reinforcing member 135, for example, a metalreinforcement.

As shown in FIG. 7, the upper and lower arms 132 and 134 are spaced fromone another a distance D along central axis CA to define a receivingopening 136 obliquely oriented to central axis CA. As shown in FIGS. 8and 9, the lock housing 14 is positioned at an oblique angle to axis tobe received through the opening 136 and then rotated to a position withthe housing 14 substantially parallel with the axis CA. As shown inFIGS. 7 and 11, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper arm 132includes a series of upper end notches 133 configured to receive aportion of the lock 12, for example, the lock shackle 16, to stabilizethe lock 14. The multiple notches 133 allow lock shackle 16 of the lock12 to be positioned in various orientations to central axis CA, as shownin the section view of FIG. 11.

Referring to FIG. 12, a mounting assembly 120′ similar to the previousembodiment is illustrated. In the present embodiment, the arms 132′ and134′ are not axially spaced from one another along central axis CA anddo not overlap one another, but instead are in the same plane. The arms132′ and 134′ are sized such that a receiving opening 136′ into theretaining area 131′ is defined between the arms 132′ and 134′. As in theprevious embodiment, the retaining area 131′ is sized to snap fittinglyreceive and retain a portion of the lock 12′, e.g. the housing 14′ ofthe illustrated cable lock.

According to one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 7-12, atransportation device accessory includes a locking apparatus configuredto secure the transportation device to an object and a mounting assemblymountable to the transportation device and to the locking apparatus. Themounting assembly includes a bracket with a member extending therefromthat is mountable to the transportation device. The mounting assemblyalso includes a receiving portion extending from the bracket removablyengaging the locking apparatus. The receiving portion includes a firstarm extending upwardly from a first side of the bracket and a second armextending downwardly from a second side of the bracket opposite thefirst side. The first and second arms each further extend outwardly fromthe bracket to define a receiving area between the first and second armsand the bracket. The retaining area extends along a central axis alongwhich the first and second arms are spaced a distance from one another.A portion of the locking apparatus is positioned along the central axiswhen secured in the retaining area by the first and second arms.

In one refinement of this aspect, the first and second arms each extendalong an arc greater than 180 degrees to an outer end thereof so thatthe first and second arms overlap one another around the central axis.In another refinement, the first and second arms define a retaining areahaving a first diameter and the portion of the locking apparatusreceived in the retaining area defines a second diameter that is greaterthan the first diameter so that the portion of the locking apparatussnap fits into the first and second arms in the retaining area. Inanother refinement, the first and second arms define a receiving openingtherebetween that is configured so that the portion of the lockingapparatus must be positioned at an oblique angle to the central axis tobe positioned through the receiving opening. In yet another refinement,the first arm defines a plurality of notches along an upper side thereofand to receive a second portion of the locking apparatus that istransverse to the first portion to secure the locking apparatus in anorientation determined by a position of the notch in which the secondportion is positioned. In yet another refinement, the bracket includes afirst portion movably connected to a second portion of the bracket, andthe member includes a first end fixedly connected to a first side of thefirst portion of the bracket. The first portion of the bracket defines achannel opening along a second a second side of the first portion thatis opposite the first side. The bracket further includes a leverpivotably mounted to the second side along the channel to define anopening for receiving a second end of the member that is opposite thefirst end. The lever is movable in locking engagement with the member inthe channel to tighten the member around the transportation device. Thebracket further includes a tab pivotably mounted to the lever that ismovable relative to the lever and the member to release the member fromlocking engagement with the lever.

Referring to FIGS. 13-16, a mounting assembly 220 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIG. 16shows mounting assembly 220 attached to a bicycle frame at variouspositions with a U-lock 12 supported in the mounting assembly 220. Themounting assembly 220 generally comprises a bracket body 222, moveablelocking tabs 226, a control knob 230, a connection arm 246 and a pair oflevers 240.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket body 222 is a T-shaped planermember defining three lobes 222 a, 222 b and 222 c. Each lobe 222 a, 222b and 222 c supports a corresponding moveable locking tab 226. Lobe 222c also includes a fixed locking tab 227 at an end thereof opposite themoveable locking tab 226. The invention is not limited to the number orconfiguration of lobes and moveable or fixed locking tabs. Each moveablelocking tab 226 includes a guide portion 228 which extends through arespective slot 224 in the bracket body 222. The guide portions 228 eachengage an activation assembly such as, for example, a rack and pinionassembly, associated with the control knob 230 and shaft 231. Rotationof the control knob 230 and shaft 231 causes the moveable locking tabs226 to move between the inward positions shown in FIG. 15 and theoutward positions shown in FIG. 13. To prevent inadvertent movement ofthe tabs 226, the control knob 230 preferably includes a clutchmechanism or the like which prevents rotation of the control knob 230unless a clutch release button 232 is depressed.

In one embodiment, control knob 230 is in splined or toothed engagementwith the outer periphery of release button 232 but is slidable relativeto button 232 along shaft 231. Pushing release button 232 as indicatedby arrow 252 moves the shaft 231 and the pinion gear 250 connected atthe end of shaft 231 out of engagement with rack gear teeth 254 a, 254b, 254 c extending along the respective lobe 222 a, 222 b, 222 c andconnected to respective ones of the locking tabs 226. A spring 256connected to release button 232 normally biases the pinion gear 250 intoengagement with the rack gear teeth 254 a, 254 b, 254 c when releasebutton 232 is released. Control knob 230 is pulled out as indicated byarrow 258 to release one or more locking splines 260 in the assemblythat engages, for example, a respective one of one or more aligned slots262 in bracket 222, and allow control knob 230 to turn and move lockingtabs 226 inwardly and outwardly. Pushing release control knob 230inwardly re-engages the spline 260 and locks control knob 230 fromturning and locks tabs 226 in place.

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, the tabs 226 and 227 are configured toengage the housing 14 and shackle 16 of the illustrated U-lock or toengage the cable 16′ of the illustrated cable lock 12′. Other lockassemblies may also be supported.

To secure the bracket body 222 to a bicycle or the lock, a pair ofstraps 236 and levers 240 extends from the bottom of the bracket body222. The strap 236 is connected at one end 230 to bracket body 22 andhas an opposite free end 232. Ridges 238 are defined along one side ofthe strap 236. The lever 240 is pivotally supported to the bracket body222 via a pivot connector 246. The lever 240 supports opposed tabs 244and 245 which are pivotally connected to one another with a ratchettooth (not shown) therebetween. The strap 236 is looped around a portionof the bicycle and the free end 232 is positioned between the tabs 244,245 such that the internal ratchet tooth engages the ridges 238 and thestrap 236 is maintained at an initial tension. The lever 240 isthereafter pivoted to a closed position (see FIGS. 13 and 15) such thatthe strap 236 is further tensioned to grip the portion of the bicycle ortransportation device to which it is engaged.

According to one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 13-16, thereis provided a transportation device accessory that includes a lockingapparatus configured to secure the transportation device to an objectand a mounting assembly mountable to the transportation device and tothe locking apparatus. The mounting assembly includes a bracketincluding a body with a first lobe, a second lobe opposite the firstlobe, and a third lobe offset from and between the first and secondlobes. The first and second lobes each include a respective one of firstand second locking tabs, and the third lobe includes a third lockingtab. The first, second and third locking tabs are movable away from oneanother to an outward position to secure the locking apparatus to themounting assembly. The first, second and third locking tabs are furthermovable toward one another to an inward position to release the lockingapparatus from the mounting assembly. The mounting assembly alsoincludes at least one connector extending from the bracket that isconnectable to the transportation device to secure the mounting assemblyto the transportation device.

In one refinement of this aspect, the connector includes a strap with afirst end connected to the bracket and an opposite free end; aconnection arm pivotably connected to the bracket and a lever pivotablyconnected to the connection arm opposite the bracket; and a first tabpivotably connected to the lever and a second tab pivotably connected tothe first tab. The first and second tabs define an opening to receivethe strap therethrough and the first and second tabs are pivotablerelative to one another to selectively lock and release the free end ofthe strap relative to the bracket. In another refinement, the bracketincludes a fixed tab on the third lobe and the third locking tab ismovable toward the fixed tab to secure the locking apparatustherebetween in the outward position. In another refinement, themounting assembly includes a control knob between the first, second andthird locking tabs. The control knob is connected to a shaft extendingthrough the bracket to an adjustment mechanism engaged to each of thefirst, second and third locking tabs. The control knob is rotatable in afirst direction to move the first, second and third locking tabs to theoutward position and the control knob is rotatable in a second directionopposite the first direction to move the first, second and third lockingtabs to the inward position. The control knob houses a clutch releasemechanism to release the control knob from a locked condition. Inanother refinement, the at least one connector includes a firstconnector and a second connector. The first connector is positionedalong the first lobe and the second connector being positioned along thesecond lobe.

Referring to FIGS. 17-22, a mounting assembly 320 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIGS.21 and 21A show mounting assembly 320 attached to a bicycle frame atvarious positions with a U-lock 12 or cable lock 12′ supported in themounting assembly 320. The mounting assembly 320 generally comprises abracket body 322, a connection bolt 324, a grip surface 330, elasticstraps 336 and strap connectors 329.

The bracket body 322 defines a through hole 319 configured to receive aportion of the bicycle frame or the like. Opposed legs 321 and 323extend from the bracket body 322 and support a connection bolt 324. Anut 325 is threadably secured to one end of the bolt 324 and the otherend includes a cam member 326. The nut 325 is tightened against the leg321 and then the cam 326 is moved to a locked position (see FIG. 18) tosecure the bracket body 322. For portions of the bicycle having asmaller diameter, e.g. a seat post, an adapter 350 may be provided asillustrated in FIG. 22. The adapter 350 is positioned about the postwith a pair of opposed legs 352 and 354 extending therefrom. Each leg352, 354 has a respective outward flange 351, 353. The legs 352, 354 andflanges 351, 353 are received through the through hole 319 and then thenut 325 and cam 326 are secured such that the through hole 319 diameteris less than the outer diameter of the flanges 351, 353. Adapter 350 maybe used to mount the bracket of any of the embodiments disclosed hereinto a portion of the transportation device. For example, first portion22A of the bracket 22 in FIG. 2 can be provided with a bore to receivelegs 352, 354 of bracket 22 therein in lieu of strap 36.

A flexible support of resilient material is positioned about a portionof the bracket body 322 to define a grip surface 330. Flexible supports327 and 328 preferably extend from the bracket body 322 to support thegrip surface 330 of the support spaced from the bracket body 322 over aportion of the grip surface 330. A pair of elastic straps 336 extendsfrom the bracket body 322 from a fixed end 337 to a free end 339. Whiletwo straps 336 are shown, the invention is not limited to such and mayinclude more or fewer. Each strap 336 includes a series of retainingopenings 338 spaced along a length of the respective strap from its freeend 339 towards fixed end 337 that are configured to engage a respectiveretaining post 329 extending from the bracket body 322.

As shown in FIGS. 18-20, to retain a lock 12, 12′, each strap 336 islooped about a portion 14, 16, 14′, 16′ of the lock 12, 12′ and securedto a respective retaining post 329 via a selected one of the retainingopenings 338 that provides the desired fit. The flexible supports 327and 328 allow the grip surface 330 to flex if necessary as tension isapplied to the lock 12, 12′ via the straps 336.

In one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 17-22, a transportationdevice accessory includes a locking apparatus configured to secure thetransportation device to an object and a mounting assembly mountable tothe transportation device and to the locking apparatus. The mountingassembly includes a bracket releasably engageable to the transportationdevice having first and second connectors extending outwardly therefrom.The mounting assembly also includes a flexible support engaged to andextending from opposite sides of the bracket member. The flexiblesupport includes a portion that is spaced from the bracket body betweenthe opposite sides. The mounting assembly also includes first and secondstraps each having a fixed end secured to the flexible support along theportion thereof. The first and second straps each have a free endopposite the fixed end. The first and second straps are positionedaround respective portions of the locking apparatus in engagement with arespective one of said first and second connectors to mount the lockingapparatus to the transportation device.

In one refinement of this aspect, each of the first and second strapsfurther includes a plurality of holes extending therethrough that arespaced along the strap from the free end toward the fixed end. Each ofthe first and second connectors is positionable in a selected one of theplurality of holes of the respective one of the first and second strapsto secure the locking apparatus with the mounting assembly. In anotherrefinement, the bracket defines a through-hole for receiving a portionof the transportation device therein and a pair of legs along one sideof the bracket defines a gap therebetween. The mounting assembly alsoincludes a connection member extending through the pair of legs and acam member operable to move the pair of legs toward one another toclampingly engage the bracket to the portion of the transportationdevice. In another refinement, an adapter is positionable around aportion of the transportation device. The adapter includes a pair oflegs extending outwardly therefrom with a flange at an end of each leg.The bracket defines a through-hole positioned around the pair of legs togrippingly engage the adapter with the portion of the transportationdevice and with the flanges retaining the bracket on the pair of legs.

Referring to FIGS. 23-28, a mounting assembly 420 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIG. 26shows mounting assembly 420 attached to a bicycle frame with a U-lock 12supported in the mounting assembly 420. The mounting assembly 420generally comprises a bracket body 422 and a pair of connection members440 and 450.

The bracket body 422 includes a planar bar 424 which is supported by oneor more support posts 426. In the illustrated embodiment, each supportpost 426 is connected to the bar 424 via a cam locking member 425. Camlocking members 425 are operable to release bar 424 so that bar 424 canbe adjusted in longitudinal position relative to support posts 426 toprovide a desired fit with the transportation device and then locked inthe selected position with cam locking members 425. The opposite end ofeach support post 426 is connected to a portion of the bicycle via camlocking members 427 so that bracket body 422 is located on a forwardside of the handle bars away from the rider. Other connection mechanismsmay alternatively be utilized, such as the strap mechanisms describedherein.

An angled bracket member 440 is supported adjacent one end of the bar424. The angled bracket member 440 includes a flat portion 442configured to be positioned against the bar 424 and secured thereto, forexample, via the cam locking member 425. An angled portion 443 extendsfrom the flat portion 442 away from the bar 424 such that a receivingarea 441 is defined between the angled portion 443 and the bar 424. Afree end of the angled bracket member 440 preferably defines a notch 444configured to receive and retain an elastic strap 445 (see FIG. 27)extending between the notch 444 and a retainer 423 on the bar 424. Thereceiving area 441 is configured to receive a portion 16, 16′ of thelock 12, 12′ while the strap 445 maintains bracket member 400 inengagement with the locking apparatus. In one embodiment, cam lockingmembers 425, 427, 431 are similar to a quick release mechanism and applytension when closed to hold, for example, connection members 440, 450 inplace along bar 424 of bracket body 422. Pulling back on the lever ofthe cam locking members allows connection members 440, 450 to slideinwardly and/or outwardly along bar 424 of bracket body 422. Teeth orother structures may be provided on one or both of the cam lockingmembers and bar 424 to provide additional locking engagement.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, a sliding block 430 is slidably securedvia a cam locking member 431 on the bar 424. The sliding block 430supports the second bracket member 450, 450′ such that the position ofthe second bracket member 450, 450′ may be adjusted along the bar 424.

Bracket member 450 is illustrated in FIG. 25 and includes an attachmentplate 452 configured for attachment to the sliding block 430. A lockreceiving member 454 is secured to the plate 452. In the presentembodiment, the lock receiving member 454 is a flexible element defininga receiving area 456 configured to receive and retain a portion 14 ofthe lock 12. A strap 458 may also be provided on the lock receivingmember 454 and configured to be secured across the receiving area 456 tofurther secure the lock 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the strap 458and lock receiving member 454 have complimentary attachment pads 455,457, e.g. hook and loop attachment pads, to secure the strap 458.

An alternate bracket member 450′ is illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28. Thebracket member 450′ includes an attachment plate 452 configured forattachment to the sliding block 430. A retaining member 460 extendssubstantially perpendicularly from the plate 452 and includes an angledportion 462 such that a retaining area 456′ is defined between the plate452 and the retaining member 460. As shown in FIG. 27, the retainingarea can receive and retain, for example, cable portion 16′ of cablelock 12′ and the slidable bracket member 450′ is adjustable along bar424 to provide a spacing between bracket member 440 and bracket member450′ that provides a desired fit with the locking apparatus.

According to one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 23-28, atransportation device accessory includes a locking apparatus configuredto secure the transportation device to an object and a mounting assemblymountable to the transportation device and to the locking apparatus. Themounting assembly includes an elongated bracket body and a pair ofsupport posts extending from the bracket body. Each of the support postsincludes a locking member removably engageable with the transportationdevice. The mounting assembly also includes a first connection membermounted to the bracket body toward a first end of the bracket body. Thefirst connection member extends outwardly from the bracket body. Themounting assembly also includes a second connection member mounted tothe bracket body. The second connection member extends from the bracketbody along an angled portion to an outer end that is spaced from thebracket body to define a receiving area between the second connectionmember and the bracket body. A first end portion of the lockingapparatus is positioned in the receiving area with an opposite secondend portion of the locking apparatus positioned in engagement with thefirst connection member to secure the locking apparatus to the mountingassembly.

In one refinement of this aspect, the first connection member isslidingly adjustable in position along the bracket body to adjust aspacing between the first and second connection members. The firstconnection member may also include a pad defining a second receivingarea for receiving the second end portion of the locking apparatus andan attachment strap extending from one side of the attachment pad thatis closeable over the receiving area for releasable engagement with anopposite side of the attachment pad. In another refinement, the firstconnection member includes a retaining member extending outwardly from asliding block of the first connection member that is slidable along theelongated bracket body. The retaining member defines a retaining areafor receiving a portion of the locking apparatus therearound.

Referring to FIGS. 29-33, a mounting assembly 520 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIG. 33shows mounting assembly 520 attached to a bicycle frame at variouslocations with a U-lock 12 supported in the mounting assembly 520. Themounting assembly 520 generally comprises a sleeve body 522 and asecurement strap 530.

The sleeve body 522 includes a tubular member manufactured, for example,from a foam or elastic material. The sleeve body 522 defines a throughpassage 521 configured to receive a portion of the lock 12, for example,the housing 14 of the illustrated U-lock. The sleeve body 522 may definean aperture 523 which aligns with a key hole or the like as illustratedin FIG. 30. The sleeve body 522 may have a continuous perimeter asillustrated in FIG. 31 or may be adjustable as illustrated in FIG. 32.In the embodiment of FIG. 32, the sleeve body 522′ is defined by aplurality of materials layers 525 with attachment means 527, forexample, hook and loop fasteners, such that the layers 525 may beconnected in various configurations to define different diameters of thethrough passage 521.

The securement strap 530 extends from the sleeve body 522 to a free end534. An attachment pad 532 is provided along the strap 530 proximate thefree end 534. The attachment pad 532 is configured to attach to anattachment area 524 along the sleeve 522. The attachment pad 532 andattachment area 524 may utilize hook and loop fasteners or any otherfastening mechanism. To secure the lock 12, the strap 530 is loopedaround a portion of the bicycle and then secured via the attachment pad532 attached to attachment area 524. Attachment area 524 may cover arelatively large area of sleeve 524 to provide multiple attachmentlocations and adjustability for strap 30 to be fitted around the portionof the transportation device to which the locking apparatus is to bemounted.

To further stabilize the lock 12, the mounting assembly 520 may furtherinclude a secondary strap 540 configured to be secured to anotherportion of the lock, for example, the shackle 16. In the illustratedembodiment, the secondary strap 540 is an elastic member with a throughhole 542 at one end and configured to receive the shackle 16. Theopposite end 544 of the strap 540 includes a hook 546 configured to besecured in receiving opening 548. Other configurations, for example, ahook and loop strap, may also be utilized.

According to one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 29-33, thereis disclosed a transportation device accessory including a lockingapparatus configured to secure the transportation device to an objectand a mounting assembly mountable to the transportation device and tothe locking apparatus. The mounting assembly includes a sleeve bodydefining a passage for receiving a portion of the locking apparatustherethrough. The mounting assembly further includes a securement strapextending from the sleeve body to a free end. The securement strapincludes an attachment pad along at least one side thereof adjacent thefree end so that the securement strap is positionable around a portionof the transportation device with the attachment pad being releasablyengaged to a receiving pad on the sleeve body to secure the mountingassembly and the locking apparatus to the transportation device.

In one refinement of this aspect, the transportation device accessoryincludes a second strap positioned in engagement with the lockingapparatus opposite the portion of the locking apparatus received in thesleeve body. The second strap is also engaged to the transportationdevice. In another refinement, the sleeve defines an aperturetherethrough opening into the passage that aligns with a keyway on thelocking apparatus.

Referring to FIGS. 34-38, a mounting assembly 620 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIG. 34shows mounting assembly 620 attached to a bicycle frame with a U-lock 12supported in the mounting assembly 620. The mounting assembly 620generally comprises a support bar 622, opposed support surfaces 630 and640 and straps 650 extending between the surfaces.

The support bar 622 includes a connection member 624 at one endconfigured for connection to a bicycle post or the like. The oppositeend may include a reflector 626. The support bar 622 is configured tosupport a lower perimeter frame 634 and the lower support surface 630.The lower support surface 630 includes a fabric material 632 extendingbetween and carried by lower perimeter frame 634. The lower frame 634 isconfigured to define a notch 637 along at least one of the lateral sidesof the support surface 630. The upper support surface 640 is similar tothe lower support surface 630 and includes an upper perimeter frame 644and a fabric material 642. In the illustrated embodiment, the upperframe 644 extends only about three sides of the fabric material 642 suchthat the material 642 is slidably removable from upper frame 644. Theupper frame 644 extends through the upper through bore 652 of each strap650 such that the straps 650 remain attached to the upper supportsurface 640 unless the upper frame 644 is removed. A rod 653 extendsthrough the lower through bores 651 of each of the straps 650 along agiven lateral side of the mounting assembly 620. The rod 653 isconfigured to engage the lower frame 634 and retain the lower portionsof the straps 650 within the respective notch 637. The rod 653 may bemoved from the lower frame 634 such that the adjoined straps 650 are allpivotal about the upper frame 644 as shown in FIG. 37, allowing upperframe 644 and upper support surface 650 to be removed and provide accessto a retaining area 649 around pocket 648. The straps 650 may beutilized to retain a portion of the shackle, cable, or chains of thelocking apparatus stored between the support surfaces 630 and 640, forexample the chain portion 18 of the lock 12″.

As shown in FIG. 36, the upper support surface 640 preferably defines anopening 647 and a material of pocket 648 extends about the perimeter ofthe opening 647 between the upper and lower support surfaces 640 and 630to define storage pocket 648. A cover 645 is pivotally secured to theupper support surface 640 and covers the opening 647 to allow access topocket 648 without removal of upper support surface 640 and upper frame644. As shown in an alternate embodiment of FIG. 38, an additionalstorage compartment 660 may be attached to the upper support surface 640and/or upper frame 644. The storage compartment 660 includes a side wall662 extending from upper support surface 640 and/or a second lowersurface (not shown) of compartment 660. A cover 664 is secured to theside wall 662 via a zipper 665 or the like that allows cover 664 to beopened to access the interior of storage compartment 660. The storagecompartment 660 may be secured to the upper support surface 640 and/orupper frame 644 via hook and loop fasteners, snaps, straps, or any othersuitable fasteners.

According to one aspect of the mounting assembly embodiment of FIGS.34-38, there is disclosed a transportation device accessory thatincludes a locking apparatus configured to secure the transportationdevice to an object and a mounting assembly mountable to thetransportation device and to the locking apparatus. The mountingassembly includes an elongated support bar extending between a first endconnectable to the transportation device and an opposite second end thatsupports a lower frame. The lower frame supports a lower support surfaceand a wall defining a pocket that extends upwardly from the lowersupport surface. The lower frame and lower support surface furtherdefine a retaining area around the pocket. The mounting assembly alsoincludes an upper frame defining an upper support surface removablypositioned over the pocket and the lower support surface. The upperframe includes a first side movably connected to a first side of thelower frame and a second side removably connected to the lower frame sothat the upper frame and upper support surface can be displaced awayfrom the lower support surface to provide access to the retaining area.The locking apparatus is positioned in the retaining area around thepocket.

In one refinement of this aspect, a number of straps are provided alongthe first side that extend between and connect the upper and lowerframes. In addition, a number of straps along the second side areconnected to the upper frame and to a connecting rod. The connecting rodis removably engageable to a notch in the lower frame. In anotherrefinement, the upper and lower support surfaces are comprised of fabricextending around respective ones of the upper and lower frames. Inanother refinement, the upper support surface defines a removable coverthat extends across an upper opening of the pocket. In still anotherrefinement, a side wall extends upwardly from the upper support surface.The side wall defines a storage compartment. A recloseable cover extendsacross the side wall to enclose and provide access to the storagecompartment.

Referring to FIGS. 39-44, a mounting assembly 720 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIGS.42-44 show mounting assembly 720 attached to a bicycle frame with aU-lock 12 supported in the mounting assembly 720. The mounting assembly720 generally comprises an upper body 722 and lower body 730 defining asack with an openable upper end 724 and a closed lower end 731. Upperbody 722 and lower body 730 define a retaining area 721 therein. A flap740 and support straps 760, 762 are provided on upper body 722.

The upper body 722 is defined by a tubular sleeve of fabric material andis joined at its lower end 726 to the lower body 730. The upper body 722and lower body 730 may be manufacture from the same material ordifferent material and may be made as a unitary component or separatecomponents joined together. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper andlower bodies 722 and 730 are each manufactured from an expandablematerial to accommodate larger locks 12. Alternatively, either body 722,730 may be manufactured from a less expandable material, but may beconfigured to expand in size via other mechanisms, for example, zipperedsides which open to expand the given body 722, 730. In the illustratedembodiment, cinches 725 and 727 are provided adjacent to the upper 724and lower ends 726 of the upper body 722 to allow the volume of the sackto be reduced if smaller locks are stored. An elastic strip 732 withcushioning pockets 734 may be provided adjacent to the closed end 731 toprevent the lock from impacting against the bicycle.

A flap 740 is provided adjacent to the open upper end 724 of the upperbody 722 to close the open end 724. Snaps 741, 742, hook and loopfasteners (not shown) or any other suitable fastener may be utilized tosecure the flap 740 across the open end 724. An external pocket 750 witha flap 752 secured with a zipper 754 may be provided for storage ofadditional items.

A variety of straps 760, 762 are preferably provided on the back side ofthe upper body 722 to facilitate attachment of the mounting assembly 720to a bicycle or the like. The straps may include fixed straps 760 ormoveable straps 762. The moveable straps 762 may be secured around aportion of the transportation device via hook and loop fasteners (notshown) or any other suitable fastener to mount mounting assembly 720 tothe transportation device.

According to one aspect of the embodiment in FIGS. 39-44, there isdisclosed a transportation device accessory including a lockingapparatus configured to secure the transportation device to an objectand a mounting assembly mountable to the transportation device to securethe locking apparatus on the transportation device. The mountingassembly includes an upper body and a lower body attached to a lower endof the upper body. The upper and lower bodies comprise a sack with anopenable upper end and a closed lower end. The upper body and the lowerbody define a retaining area that is enclosed by a tubular sleeve offabric material that is at least partially expandable to accommodate thelocking apparatus in the retaining area. The upper body includes a firstcinch at an upper end of the upper body and second cinch at the lowerend of the upper body. The first and second cinches are operable toreduce a volume of the retaining area to secure the locking apparatus inthe retaining area.

In one refinement of this aspect, the mounting assembly includes anelastic strip with cushioning pockets extending along an exterior of thelower body adjacent to the closed end to provide cushioning against thetransportation device.

Referring to FIGS. 45-48, a mounting assembly 820 in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. FIG. 46shows mounting assembly 820 attached to a portion 18 of a bicycle frame,which can be at any one of the various positions on the bicycledisclosed herein for the U-lock 12 or cable lock 12′. The mountingassembly 820 generally comprises a bracket body 822, a connection bolt824, a first receiving area 830 and a second receiving area 850 definedby respective ones of strap connectors 829 and 849, and elastic straps836 mounted to respective ones of strap connectors 829 and 849 to securethe locking apparatus in receiving areas 830, 850.

The bracket body 822 defines a through hole 819 configured to receiveportion 18 of the bicycle frame or the like. Opposed legs 821 and 823extend from the bracket body 822 and support a connection bolt 824. Inone embodiment, a nut 825 is threadably secured to one end of the bolt824 and the other end includes a cam member 826. In other embodiments,cam member 826 can be omitted. In the illustrated embodiment, the nut825 is tightened against the leg 823 and then the cam 826 is moved to alocked position (see cam member 826 in hidden lines in FIG. 18) tofinally compress legs 821, 823 and secure the resilient bracket body 822against portion 18. For portions of the bicycle having a smallerdiameter, e.g. a seat post, or other location in which through-hole 819to too large to provide a secure mounting arrangement, an adapter 350may be provided as illustrated and discussed above with respect to FIG.22.

Bracket 822 defines a flexible support for connectors 829, 849 extendingoutwardly therefrom to receive portions 14, 16, respectively, of lockingapparatus 12. Connectors 829, 849 extend from the bracket body 822 tosupport transversely, orthogonally, or otherwise non-parallel orientedportions of locking apparatus 12. The receiving area 830 and thereceiving area 850 of connectors 829, 849 are shaped to conform with theportion of the locking apparatus received therein to provide a secureengagement along with elastic straps 836. Elastic straps 836 extend fromand are connected with respective ones of the connectors 829, 849 toreleasably secure the locking apparatus portions against surfacesdefining the receiving areas 830, 850. While two straps 836 are shown,the invention is not limited to such and may include more or fewer. Inone embodiment, each strap 836 includes a series of hook and loopfasteners and attachment pad to provide quick and relatively simplesecurement and release of the locking apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 46, in order to retain a locking apparatus, each strap836 is looped about a portion 14, 16 of the locking apparatus 12 andsecured to a respective connector 829, 849 in any suitable manner thatprovides the desired fit and retention of the locking apparatus portion.First connector 829 includes a first passage 833 between bracket body822 and first connector arm 831 and second connector arm 832. Connectorarms 831, 832 define respective second and third passages 834, 835 forreceiving strap 836 therethrough. Tensioning of strap 836 can flexconnector arms 831, 832 toward one another to grip the portion 14 oflocking apparatus 12 therebetween. Second connector 849 includes a firstpassage 853 between bracket body 822 and a first connector arm 851 andsecond connector arm 852. Connector arms 851, 852 define respectivesecond and third passages 854, 855 for receiving the other of straps 836therethrough. Tensioning of strap 836 can flex connector arms 851, 852toward one another to grip the portion 16 of locking apparatus 12therebetween.

In one aspect of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 45-48, a transportationdevice accessory includes a locking apparatus configured to secure thetransportation device to an object and a mounting assembly mountable tothe transportation device and to the locking apparatus. The mountingassembly includes a bracket releasably engageable to the transportationdevice having first and second connectors extending outwardly from abody of the bracket. The first and second connectors each include afirst arm and a second arm defining a receiving area for receivingrespective ones of first and second portions of the locking apparatustherein. The first and second straps are connected to respective ones ofthe first and second connectors and are positioned around respectiveones of the first and second portions of the locking apparatus inengagement with a respective one of the first and second connectors tomount the locking apparatus to the mounting assembly.

In one refinement of this aspect, the bracket defines a firstthrough-hole for receiving a portion of the transportation devicetherein and a pair of legs along one side of said bracket that define agap therebetween. The bracket also includes a connection memberextending through the pair of legs and a cam member operable to move thepair of legs toward one another to clampingly engage the bracket to theportion of the transportation device.

In another refinement of this aspect, the bracket defines a firstpassage between the bracket body and the first connector for receivingthe first strap. The bracket also defines a second passage between thebracket body and the second connector for receiving the second strap.The first and second arms of the first connector each define respectiveones of third and fourth passages for receiving the first strap, and thefirst and second arms of the second connector each define respectiveones of the fifth and sixth passage for receiving the second strap. In afurther refinement, tightening of the first and second straps flexes thefirst and second arms of the respective one of the first and secondconnectors to tighten the first and second arms thereof around therespective one of the first and second portions of the locking apparatuspositioned therein.

While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be understood that such embodiments areprovided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes andsubstitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departingfrom the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that theappended claims cover all such variations as fall within the spirit andscope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A transportation device accessory, comprising: alocking apparatus configured to secure a transportation device to anobject; and a mounting assembly mountable to the transportation deviceand to said locking apparatus, said mounting assembly including: abracket with a member extending therefrom that is mountable to thetransportation device; and a receiving portion extending from saidbracket and removably engaging said locking apparatus, wherein saidreceiving portion includes a first arm extending upwardly from a firstside of said bracket and a second arm extending downwardly from a secondside of said bracket opposite said first side, said first and secondarms each extending outwardly from said bracket to define a retainingarea between said first and second arms and said bracket, said retainingarea extending along a central axis along which said first and secondarms are spaced a distance from one another, wherein a portion of saidlocking apparatus is positioned along the central axis when secured insaid retaining area by said first and second arms, and wherein saidfirst and second arms define a receiving opening therebetween defining alateral opening into said retaining area such that said portion of saidlocking apparatus is positioned laterally through said receiving openingand seated in said retaining area from a direction transverse to saidcentral axis.
 2. The transportation device accessory of claim 1, whereinsaid retaining area between said first and second arms defines a firstdiameter and said portion of said locking apparatus received in saidretaining area defines a second diameter that is greater than said firstdiameter so that said portion of said locking apparatus snap fits intosaid retaining area between the first and second arms.
 3. Thetransportation device accessory of claim 1, wherein said receivingopening is configured so that said portion of said locking apparatusmust be positioned at an oblique angle to said central axis to bepositioned through said receiving opening and into said retaining area.4. The transportation device accessory of claim 1, wherein said firstarm defines a plurality of notches along an upper side thereof and toreceive a second portion of said locking apparatus that is transverse tosaid first portion of said locking apparatus to secure said lockingapparatus in a selected orientation of said second portion relative tosaid central axis.
 5. The transportation device accessory of claim 1,wherein: the bracket includes a first portion movably connected to asecond portion; and the member includes a first end fixedly connected toa first side of said first portion of said bracket, and said firstportion of said bracket defines a channel opening along a second asecond side of said first portion that is opposite said first side, andsaid bracket further includes a lever pivotably mounted to said secondside along said channel to define an opening in a first position of saidlever for receiving a second end of said member that is opposite saidfirst end, wherein said lever is movable in locking engagement with saidmember in said channel to tighten said member around the transportationdevice, wherein said bracket further includes a tab pivotably mounted tosaid lever that is movable relative to said lever and said member torelease said member from said locking engagement.
 6. The transportationdevice accessory of claim 1, wherein said first and second arms eachdefine a circular inner surface extending about said central axis andalong an inner diameter of said retaining area, and wherein said portionof said locking apparatus defines an outer diameter that is sized forreceipt within said inner diameter of said retaining area.
 7. Atransportation device accessory, comprising: a locking apparatusconfigured to secure a transportation device to an object; and amounting assembly mountable to the transportation device and to saidlocking apparatus, said mounting assembly including: a bracket with amember extending therefrom that is mountable to the transportationdevice; and a receiving portion extending from said bracket andremovably engaging said locking apparatus, wherein said receivingportion includes a first arm extending upwardly from a first side ofsaid bracket and a second arm extending downwardly from a second side ofsaid bracket opposite said first side, said first and second arms eachextending outwardly from said bracket to define a retaining area betweensaid first and second arms and said bracket, said retaining areaextending along a central axis along which said first and second armsare spaced a distance from one another, wherein a portion of saidlocking apparatus is positioned along the central axis when secured insaid retaining area by said first and second arms, and wherein saidfirst and second arms each extend along an arc greater than 180 degreesto an outer end of a respective one of said first and second arms sothat said first and second arms overlap one another around said centralaxis.
 8. A mounting assembly configured to facilitate mounting of alocking apparatus configured to secure a transportation device to anobject, the mounting assembly comprising: a bracket configured formounting to the transportation device; a first arm extending upward froma first side of the bracket and curving about a central axis topartially define a retaining area; a second arm extending downward froma second side of the bracket and curving about the central axis tofurther define the retaining area; and a helical channel defined betweenthe first and second arms and connected with the retaining area.
 9. Themounting assembly of claim 8, wherein an upper side of the first armincludes a plurality of notches, each of the notches operable to supporta shackle of the locking apparatus when a crossbar of the lockingapparatus is received in the retaining area.
 10. The mounting assemblyof claim 9, wherein the first arm has a first central angle about thecentral axis, wherein the second arm has a second central angle aboutthe central axis, and wherein each of the first central angle and thesecond central angle is greater than 180 degrees.
 11. A system includingthe mounting assembly of claim 8, further comprising the lockingapparatus, wherein the locking apparatus includes a crossbar and ashackle selectively coupled to the crossbar, and wherein the crossbar isoperable to be inserted into the retaining area via the helical channel.12. The system of claim 11, wherein the helical channel is arranged suchthat the crossbar extends obliquely relative to the central axis duringinsertion of the crossbar via the helical channel.
 13. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the retaining area is arranged such that the crossbarextends along the central axis when the crossbar is received in theretaining area.
 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the first armincludes a plurality of notches; and wherein a portion of the shackle isseated in one of the notches when the crossbar is received in theretaining area.
 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the retaining areahas a first diameter; and wherein the crossbar has a second diametergreater than the first diameter such that insertion of the crossbar intothe retaining area deforms the first arm and the second arm, therebycausing the first arm and the second arm to clamp the crossbar.
 16. Thesystem of claim 11, wherein a diameter of the crossbar is less than awidth of the helical channel.
 17. A mounting assembly configured for usewith a transportation device and a locking apparatus, the mountingassembly comprising: a bracket configured for mounting to thetransportation device, the bracket defining a retaining area extendingalong a central axis, wherein the retaining area is sized and shaped toreceive and retain a crossbar of the locking apparatus, and wherein theretaining area is defined at least in part by a first arm and a secondarm, wherein a space between the first arm and the second arm defines areceiving opening operable to receive the crossbar when the crossbar isat an oblique angle relative to the central axis, and wherein thereceiving opening is connected with the retaining area such that thecrossbar is operable to be placed in the retaining area by inserting thecrossbar into the receiving opening and rotating the crossbar intoalignment with the central axis.
 18. The mounting assembly of claim 17,wherein one of the arms includes a plurality of notches, and whereineach of the notches is operable to receive a portion of a shackle of thelocking apparatus when the crossbar is aligned with the central axis.19. The mounting assembly of claim 17, further comprising a strapoperable to secure the bracket to the transportation device.
 20. Asystem including the mounting assembly of claim 17, further comprisingthe locking apparatus, wherein the locking apparatus further includes ashackle selectively coupled to the crossbar.
 21. The system of claim 20,wherein the receiving opening has a helical shape extending about thecentral axis.